A face-gaiter source control mask

ABSTRACT

A face-gaiter mask (10; 100) includes a top seal (14; 100B), a front filter section (10A; 100A), a rear section (100D) and a neck seal (10B; 100C). In use, the front filter section (10A, 100A) is located to the front of the user&#39;s face and is configured to cover at least the user&#39;s nostrils and the user&#39;s mouth. The front filter section (10A, 100A) includes at least two fabric layers (10; 120, 120A, 120B), wherein the at least two fabric layers are configured to provide a predetermined level of filtration and resistance to airflow through the filter section (10A; 100A). The top seal (14; 100B) includes a nose detail (12), which extends from an upper edge of the front filter section (10B; 100B) and extends at least partway into the front filter section (10B; 10 100B). The neck seal (10B; 100C) includes draping fabric, which extends from the front filter section (10B; 100B), the top seal (14; 100B) and a lower edge (17; 23; 117; 123) of the neck seal (10B; 100C). The front section fabric drapes loosely in random folds, which in use provide a fluid configuration and fluid surface area upon which exhaled aerosols and particles can be trapped.

FIELD OF INVENTION

The present invention relates to a source control mask, in particularthe invention relates to a face-gaiter-style source control mask.

BACKGROUND TO THE INVENTION

The air we exhale when we breathe contains a lot of water, some inertmatter and can contain bacteria and virus. “Source control” prevents thetransfer of pathogens from an infected person to a susceptibleperson/other people either directly through the inhalation of expelledaerosols or indirectly though transfer of material from droplets viacontaminated surfaces. In relation to wearing face coverings/masks,source control is the containment of exhaled particles that pose a riskof infecting others. The bacteria and virus that pose this risk arecarried in particles, i.e. droplets and aerosols, which are composedmainly of water. Droplets and aerosols are emitted at body temperatureinto an environment which is typically cooler, and this means the air weexhale and at least some of the particles in the air can becomepositively buoyant and tend to rise.

It is helpful to think of aerosols as particles that are light enough tobe buoyant and droplets as particles that are too dense to becomebuoyant. Both sets of particles are carried by the air stream whenexhaled during normal breathing at around 1 m/s. This air stream quicklydisperses and slows down as it travels away from you i.e. the air streamtakes around 3 s to travel the first metre and a further 9 s to travelthe second metre. As the air flow slows down, droplets i.e. largerparticles are affected by gravity and start to fall, and the dropletswill settle on the surfaces they make contact with, for example tabletops, floor etc. At the same time the air and aerosols i.e. smallerparticles which are less dense than the surrounding air begin to deflectupwards towards the ceiling. The aerosols begin to interact with theenvironment, including other aerosols, losing heat and either losing orgaining mass depending on the conditions. Some of these aerosols maystay buoyant for hours and will disperse widely within any confinedspace until they are able to settle on a surface, potentially hourslater. Some of the particles will be neutrally buoyant and these willcontinue in a straight line and it is likely that these will initiallytravel the farthest from the source (2-3 m) before losing momentum andare then carried by the air currents within the space. The buoyancy ofthese aerosols is not fixed but varies slowly over time with exchangeswith the environment.

A high percentage of droplets i.e. larger particles greater than 50 um,can be contained by most types of face covering. The inertia of dropletsmeans they will impact on and be contained by anything that is put intheir way. Catching them in a face covering/mask stops them from beingdeposited on surfaces where other people may encounter them. Thedroplets themselves provide an environment that is more likely tosustain infectivity of the pathogens for the maximum length of time.Therefore, containment of droplets can reduce transmission of pathogensfrom the upper respiratory tract where these larger particles aregenerated when talking, singing, coughing and sneezing.

Aerosols i.e. buoyant particles are generated in both the lower andupper respiratory tract. Aerosols below 10 μm can be inhaled directlyinto the lungs of another person. Aerosols are more difficult to containthan droplets, the buoyancy of aerosols mean they are carried by the airstream through the fabric of the face covering/mask when the fabriccomposition includes voids that cannot prevent egress or through smallgaps around the perimeter of the face covering/mask. It will beappreciated, aerosols can potentially pass through any void or gap whichpermits the passage of air and is larger than the aerosol.

Regarding containment of aerosols and droplets i.e. small and largeparticles, gaps/spaces around the perimeter of a face covering/mask playa dominant role in the performance of a face covering/mask. It will beappreciated, air, as a fluid, follows the path of least resistance,therefore a large percentage of the air exhaled will pass through even asmall gap at the perimeter of the face covering/mask when there is ahigh resistance to the passage of air, through the fabric of the facecovering/mask.

Typically, in hospitals and medical establishments, source control ismanaged by the use of disposable surgical masks. Such masks weredesigned to protect patients against possible infection transmitted froma surgeon and their medical team.

Disposable masks are inexpensive, readily available and are configuredto be one-size fits all i.e. they fit all face types in a similar way.

The fabric composition of a disposable surgical mask is often able tofilter more than 95% of exhaled aerosols, which are larger than 0.3 μm.It will be appreciated, that such a fabric composition will resist thepassage of air through the body of the fabric. Therefore, as the userbreathes normally each exhalation will produce an output of aerosols anddroplets, the passage of which will be resisted by the fabriccomposition. However, as noted above the flow path of exhaled air, whichcontains aerosols and droplets, will be the path of least resistance.Therefore, any gap or void at the perimeter will provide an exitroute/path for the exhaled matter. For example: for a surgical mask, agap of approximately 12 mm² has been shown to permit 50% of aerosols toescape from behind the face covering/mask while a visible gap willpermit almost all aerosols to escape from behind a face covering/mask.

At normal breathing rates for example when walking, talking or evensinging, the pressure of exhaled air behind a surgical mask is around 50to 100 Pa (Pa=Pascal) i.e. the pressure required to force exhaled airthrough the fabric, this resistance to the air passing through thefabric means that even a very small gap will allow at least some of theair and the aerosols carried by it to escape from behind the facecovering/mask via the gap. Even if the disposable face covering/mask isfitted with no visible gaps, and the user avoids talking and adjustingthe fit, which may create a gap or gaps, the peak pressure generated byexhalation alone is capable of displacing the face covering/mask. Thisresulting displacement will create a gap about the perimeter of the facecovering/mask and the gap will therefore facilitate the escape of airand the associated aerosols to exit from behind the face covering/mask.It will be appreciated that exertion will increase the breathing rateand therefore increase the pressure, making it more likely thatexhalation could displace the mask and create additional unwanted gapsabout the perimeter of the face covering/mask.

Face covering/masks can also be used to protect a person wearing themask from inhalation of airborne matter, for example dust particles,pollution particles, pathogenic bacteria, pathogenic viruses, etc. Theability to protect the user from inhaling such matter typically dependson the filtration capability of the mask. Conventional masks areconsidered particularly useful to prevent inhalation of airbornebacteria and viruses, for example cold and flu viruses.

The year 2020 experienced a worldwide outbreak of a virus, SARS-Co-V2,resulting in a global pandemic. The pandemic saw many people dismiss thedanger of the virus, but also saw many people wear masks of variousshapes and forms in an attempt to prevent spread of infection.

The pandemic caused government leaders throughout the world to enforcelockdowns, meaning movement of the world population was restricted,physical contact with others was restricted and social distancingmeasures were put in place. All such measures were put in place tolimit/restrict transfer of the virus, which in many cases caused deathof the infected person.

During the time of the global pandemic and particularly on occasionswhen people were unavoidably in contact with others, for example whilstworking and being involved in other essential tasks, e.g. shopping etc,it became compulsory, unless exempted, that masks be worn. Much of thepopulation opted for surgical-type masks or masks made to a similarpattern/design.

Surgical-type masks are those that include a pleated front section andtwo ear loops and are worn across the mouth and nose. Surgical-typemasks are typically loose fitting, typically do not provide the userwith a reliable seal around the mouth and nose because leakage occursaround the edge of the mask as the user inhales and typically they donot provide the user with a reliable level of protection from inhalingsmall airborne particles. Surgical-type masks are not designed toprovide any respiratory protection.

To the lay person surgical masks would be expected to provide ahigh-level of protection to the user due to the description and thetypical application of such masks. This is apparent by the number ofpeople making fabric masks to the same design as a surgical mask.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention provides a face-gaiter mask comprising a tubularconstruction of fabric, which is configured, in use, for an upper frontcentre of the tubular construction to rest on an upper part of theuser's nose, and for the tubular construction to extend down and drapeover the user's nose, the user's mouth and the user's neck; wherein theface-gaiter mask comprises a top seal, a front filter section, a rearsection and a neck seal, wherein, in use the front filter section islocated to the front of the user's face and is configured to cover atleast the user's nostrils and the user's mouth;

wherein the front filter section includes at least two fabric layers,wherein the at least two fabric layers are configured to provide apredetermined level of filtration and resistance to airflow through thefilter section;

wherein the top seal comprises a nose detail, wherein the nose detailextends from an upper edge of the front filter section and extends atleast partway into the front filter section, wherein the nose detaildefines a localised stiffener to an upper edge and upper circumferenceof the face-gaiter mask and facilitates correct alignment of the frontfilter section of the face-gaiter mask in use, wherein, in use the nosedetail rests upon and aligns with the user's nasal bone;

wherein the neck seal comprises draping fabric, which extends from thefront filter section and in use drapes across the user's neck area andcreates a seal about the user's shoulder and upper chest area; and

wherein fabric forming the face-gaiter mask between the top seal and alower edge of the neck seal is configured to drape loosely in randomfolds, which in use provide a fluid configuration and fluid surface areaupon which exhaled aerosols and particles can be trapped.

The configuration of the face-gaiter mask is configured such that thereare no gaps, there is low resistance to airflow and to providefiltration at a predetermined level. These features mean the face-gaitermask can protect the user and people in close proximity to the user fromthe air exhaled by the user and from the air inhaled from theenvironment in which the mask is worn.

The nose-detail may be a kite-shaped detail extending down from theupper edge of the filter section, wherein upper and lower vertices andvertical diagonal of the nose-detail are configured, such that in usethey align with the user's nasal bone. The nose-detail may be a visiblefeature on the exterior of the face-gaiter mask. Alternatively, thenose-detail may be concealed from exterior view, but may be visible fromthe interior of the face-gaiter mask.

The nose-detail facilitates sealing between the user's face and theupper edge of the face-gaiter mask and also facilitates proper alignmentof the face-gaiter mask on a user's face.

The top seal may further comprise a nose seal proximate the upper edgeof the filter section, wherein the nose seal is arranged, in use, tocreate a seal between the upper edge of the front section, across theuser's nose and alongside the user's nose. The nose seal may compriseone or more deformable members, which is/are attached proximate to anupper edge of the filter section substantially symmetrically relative tothe nose-detail.

The nose seal may include two wedged inserts, where one insert isattached to each side of the nose-detail. Alternatively, the nose sealmay comprise a single contoured insert, wherein the contours of theinsert are configured to correspond substantially with contours of auser's nose and cheek area.

The nose seal may be manufactured from deformable foam.

For optimum comfort and to ensure an optimum seal, the nose seal may bemade to suit the nose profile of a specific user e.g. by scanning theuser's face and using additive manufacturing (rapid manufacturing) tomake a single customised nose seal such that the contoured insertconforms to the shape of the user's nose to cheek area.

The contoured nose seal may include a recessed section, which is shapedsuch that the nose seal rests on the bridge of the user's and two convexsections, which are shaped to bridge a gap between the upper edge of theface-gaiter and the user's nose and cheek area.

The shape and configuration of the upper edge of the face-gaiter mask,including the nose-detail and nose seal is such that gaps aresubstantially eliminated. As such the face-gaiter mask is suitable forall face shapes and head sizes and avoids gaps created by facial hairbecause the face-gaiter seals away from the hairline.

Low resistance to air flow reduces the effort required to breathe whenwearing the face-gaiter mask and reduces the pressure created within themask when the user inhales and exhales (breathes in and out). Reducingthe pressure when the user inhales prevents the fabric of the mask beingdrawn against the user's mouth. This is particularly important duringexertion (for example when exercising), which causes the user to breatheharder. Reducing the pressure when the user exhales allows easier airexchange reducing the temperature and CO₂ levels within the mask. Italso reduces the pressure on the nose seal, the top seal and the neckseal ensuring the seal is not prone to leakage or failure.

The filter section may include an additional filter layer, wherein thefilter layer occupies at least an upper portion of the filter section.The filter layer may be attached to an inner layer of the at least twolayers. Alternatively, the filter layer may be sandwiched between two ofthe at least two layers.

The filter layer may include a bulbous body and two upper pockets,wherein the pockets are configured to retain the nose seal relative tothe nose-detail.

The filter layer may extend substantially the full width and length ofthe filter section of the face-gaiter.

The filter layer may be made from one or more layers of fabric, whereinthe fabric comprises multiple or blended yarns.

The filter layer may be configured to catch aerosols smaller than 10 μm.

The filter layer may be configured to catch aerosols smaller than 3 μm.

The filter layer may be made from non-woven fabrics, fleece type knittedfabrics or tight knitted fleece fabrics. Fleece type warp knittedfabrics are very durable.

The filter layer may be made from polyester, nylon or cellulose basedyarns; fine gauge tight knitted wools; non-woven fabrics made of veryfine yarns such as cellulose, split polyester, split nylon and meltblown polypropylene.

The at least two layers may be made integrally of the same fabric,wherein the layers are created by folding fabric. Alternatively, eachlayer of the least two layers may be different materials.

The filter section of the face-gaiter mask may include an inner layer,an outer layer and a filter layer sandwiched between the inner layer andthe outer layer.

The inner layer may be made from hygroscopic fabric. A hygroscopicfabric aids filtration by having an affinity to the moisture in theparticles a user exhales. The inner layer may therefore be configured tocapture larger droplets and some aerosols and reduce the absorptiondemand on the filter layer, where the filter layer is sandwiched betweenthe inner layer and the outer layer.

The outer layer is operable to protect the filter layer. The outer layermay be more porous than the filter layer and more porous than the innerlayer such that any pathogen from the environment that is filtered bythe face-gaiter mask is likely to pass through the outer layer and beheld on the outer surface of the filter layer. The outer layer acts as abarrier to reduce the likelihood of the user transferring any pathogensto their hands or other surfaces when lifting, lowering or removing themask.

The outer layer may be made of a warp knit polyester. A warp knitpolyester is very durable and can be printed with designs or dyed suchthat the face-gaiter can be coordinated and aesthetically pleasing forthe user, whilst being functionally efficient.

The rear portion, may be joined along edges of the filter section toform the fabric tube.

The rear portion may be made a flexible and pliable material, whichensures the face-gaiter mask can be pulled over a user's head. The rearportion may include a resilient rear upper edge, which ensures the rearupper edge of the rear portion fits snuggly against the user's head whenthe face-gaiter mask is worn.

The upper edge may include an elasticated section, wherein a length ofelastic is secured to the upper edge such that, in use, the upper edgeof the rear portion fits snuggly against the user's head.

The rear portion may be made of the same material as the outer layer.

Resilience of the rear upper edge, including elastic or not includingelastic is such that when the mask is worn the configuration of thecircumferential upper edge i.e. front upper edge and the rear upper edgeof the face-gaiter mask is such that the upper circumference of theface-gaiter mask is sealed against the user's face and head to preventairflow from the upper edge of the face-gaiter mask.

The rear upper edge, elasticated or not, is configured to applyconsistent tension around the top of the mask. Consistent/constanttension facilitates the creation of a top seal and, upon rotation of theuser's head, prevents the top seal being broken or dislodged andprevents leakage/airflow through the seal.

At least the upper edge of the rear portion may be configured to stretchby at least 50%. This is such that the mask can be comfortably pulledover the user's head and such that the top seal is created and such thatno leakage occurs via the top seal.

The rear portion may be made of impermeable fabric. Alternatively, therear portion may be made of a layered construction such that the rearportion is impermeable. The layered construction may include at leasttwo flexible/pliable materials, wherein at least one material isnon-porous. The rear portion may include a layer of polyurethane,natural rubber or synthetic rubber.

The neck seal may include a tapered lower edge, wherein, in use, thelower edge rests against the user's upper torso or clothing such that aseal is created.

The tapered lower edge increases surface contact between the face-gaitermask and the user compared with a mask having a straight/horizontallower edge. Therefore, the tapered lower edge improves the neck seal.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

An embodiment of the present invention will now be described withreference to the accompanying drawings in which:

FIG. 1A illustrates a side view of a first example of a face-gaiter maskbeing worn;

FIG. 1B illustrates of a front view of the face-gaiter mask shown inFIG. 1A;

FIG. 2A illustrates a fabric insert blank/template of a filter layer;

FIG. 2B illustrates the fabric insert of FIG. 2A and an example of astitching configuration used to secure the filter layer to the upperportion of the face-gaiter illustrated in FIGS. 1A and 1B;

FIG. 2C illustrates a nose-seal for inclusion with the fabric insert ofFIGS. 2A and 2B;

FIG. 3A illustrates an external view of the face-gaiter of FIGS. 1A and1B including the stitched filter layer; and

FIG. 3B illustrates an interior view of the front section of theface-gaiter of FIGS. 1A and 1B showing the arrangement of the filterlayer and a nose seal.

FIGS. 4A and 4B illustrate a side view of a second example of aface-gaiter mask being worn;

FIG. 4C illustrates of a front view of the face-gaiter mask shown inFIGS. 4A and 4B;

FIG. 4D illustrates an exploded view of front and rear panels offace-gaiter mask of FIGS. 4A, 4B and 4C;

FIG. 5 illustrates an example of a first nose seal configuration;

FIG. 6A to 6D illustrate an example of a second nose seal configuration;and

FIG. 7A to 7D illustrate an example of a third nose seal configuration.

DESCRIPTION

A first example of a face-gaiter mask 10 (a virus control/source controlmask) is illustrated in FIGS. 1A and, 1B. The face-gaitermask/face-gaiter 10 is configured to reduce the spread of virus andbacteria from the user to the user's environment. Therefore, theface-gaiter 10, when worn as illustrated in FIGS. 1A and 1B isconfigured to protect, not only the user, but other people, who are inclose proximity of the user, from air expelled by the user e.g. duringbreathing, speaking, coughing, sneezing etc.

The face-gaiter 10 performs as source control i.e. if every personwithin a group in a given location or in close proximity wears aface-gaiter 10 the entire group is protected. In one example, if oneperson in a group is infected with a virus and that person is the onlyperson in the group wearing a face-gaiter 10 the configuration of theface-gaiter 10 is such that transmittal of the virus from the user isreduced.

The face-gaiter 10 includes an upper portion 10A and lower portion 10B.In the illustrated example, the upper portion 10A is made of at leasttwo layers of material and is fabricated to include a nose detail 12.The nose detail 12 facilitates proper alignment of the face-gaiter 10 onthe user's face and reduces the upper perimeter 14 i.e. the perimeter atthe top of the face-gaiter 10 to ensure a secure fit to the profile ofthe user's face in the region adjacent to and across the bridge of thenose and under the user's eyes. The nose detail 12 is stitched in theform of a diamond/kite-shape and facilitates tight fitting about thenose, but loose fitting around the nostril and mouth area.

The stitched nose detail 12 creates stiffness in the appropriate areawhilst helping to keep the fabric off the user's face. This can befurther enhanced by inserting a stiffer material inside this sectionbefore it is stitched.

The space created in front of the user's mouth allows all discharge tospread out and this reduces the air pressure driving/forcing theseparticles to penetrate the fabric in front of the user's mouth.

The looseness of the fabric in front of the user's mouth and themultiple layers i.e. at least double layer thickness of the fabric inthis area (at least in the front section located in front of the user'smouth and nostrils restricts air flow in the upper portion 10A more thanthe more breathable fabric at the lower portion 10B such that air flowbetween the inside and outside of the face-gaiter 10 occurs within avery much larger area compared with the area in conventional masks. Thisconfiguration reduces the air pressure between the inside and outside ofthe face-gaiter 10 further and spreads any contamination expelled by theuser over a much larger area so that any particles and aerosols areeasier to contain within the volume created between the face-gaiter 10and the user's face.

In the illustrated example, the face-gaiter 10 is made from fabric thatis flexible, pliable/stretchy in the circumferential direction i.e. inthe direction that wraps the face-gaiter 10 around the user's face. Ahemmed section or reinforced upper perimeter 14 i.e. proximate the topof the face-gaiter 10 increases the force holding the face-gaiter 10 inplace i.e. against the user's face. The hemmed section or reinforcedperimeter can be narrow i.e. proximate the upper edge of the face-gaiter10 or the hemmed section or reinforced perimeter can extend further downi.e. towards the user's chin whilst maintaining space/volume in front ofthe user's mouth.

Using a flexible/pliable/stretchy fabric helps/ensures the face-gaiter10 has a top seal i.e. fits snuggly around the user's face in the areaunder the eyes, over the bridge of the nose and around the head.

The fit of the face-gaiter around the user's nose is improved by thestitched nose detail 12 i.e. the diamond/kite-shaped feature.

The lower portion 10B i.e. the bottom of the face-gaiter 10 isconfigured to extend down and rest loosely on the user's shoulders,upper chest and about the user's neck. This arrangement creates a neckseal between the fabric of the lower portion 10B of the face-gaiter 10and the user's clothing. The lower portion 10B is configured to havehigher permeability that the upper portion 10A to encourage the exhaledair to flow down across the face and through as much of the volumecreated within the face-gaiter 10 as possible. This configurationutilises the maximum area of fabric possible in order to minimise thepressure difference between the inside and outside of the face-gaiter 10and to maximise the area of fabric available to filter the air.

In the illustrated example (FIG. 1A and FIG. 1B), the face-gaiter 10 ismade in the form of a tube/sleeve of fabric which is formed from a sheetof fabric folded about its centre line and the two outer edges arestitched together to form the tube. Alternatively, the tube could beformed from a woven or knitted tube/sleeve of material (not illustrated)or two or more panels joined/stitched together.

In the illustrated example, the lower front-edge 17 of the face-gaiter10 tapers downward such that the when worn the lower edge forms abottom/neck seal between the face-gaiter 10 and the user. Additionally,the elongated tubular configuration of the face-gaiter 10 is such thatthe fabric below the nose and mouth region hangs/drapes and createswaterfall folds in the body of the fabric, in particular, about theuser's neck and upper chest.

The face-gaiter 10 can be made to a size to suit the user's headcircumference in the region of the user's nose i.e. the circumferencearound the user's head and across the bridge of the user's nose. Propersizing improves the sealing fit of the face-gaiter 10 against the user'sface and head.

Proper sizing also ensures a bottom seal/neck seal, defined by theinteraction of the lower edge 23 of the face-gaiter 10 and the user'sskin or clothing. The length and looseness of the fabric creating thelower portion 10B ensures the bottom seal/neck seal is maintained evenwhen the user bends his/her head backwards i.e. when looking upwards.

The lower portion 10B, lower edge 23 and the tapered front edge 17create a neck seal against the user's skin or clothes. The draped natureof the lower portion 10B allows for movement and displacement of thefabric whilst not disturbing the neck seal i.e. not moving the loweredges 23, 17, thus maintaining a seal between the lower edges 23, 17 ofthe face-gaiter 10 and the user's skin or clothing.

In the illustrated example, the upper portion 10A includes at least twofabric layers, which is produced by folding inwards and downwards anupper edge of the tube and stitching the edge to the body of the fabricto produce a circumferential seam 19 approximately one-third down fromthe created upper circumference 14.

In the illustrated example, the nose-detail 12 is created by firstfolding the front panel of the upper portion 10A in half about thelengthwise centreline. An angled seam line is then stitched to form astitched triangle, defined between the long edge and the uppercircumference edge 14. The panel 10A is then rearranged flat such thatthe stitched triangle is located top, front and centre. The stitchedtriangular seam is pressed flat against the body of the fabric to createa kite-shaped nose detail 12. The kite-shape is stitched in place todefine a localised stiffened region i.e. the nose detail 12.

In the illustrated example, the kite-shaped nose detail 12 is visible onthe exterior of the front panel/portion 10A of the face-gaiter 10, 100.The shape of the nose detail 12 is such that, in use, the upper andlower vertices 32, 34 and the vertical diagonal 36 rest upon and alignwith the centreline of the user's nose (see FIG. 1B). It will beappreciated that the nose detail 12 facilitates proper alignment of theface-gaiter 10 on the user's face.

The physical manufacture of the nose detail 12 reduces theperimeter/circumference of the upper circumference 14 of the face-gaiter10 such that a secure/snug fit for the user is assured where the uppercircumference 14 is in contact with the user's face and head.

The fabric extending down from the upper circumference 14 and the nosedetail 12 is loose such that the volume defined below the uppercircumference 14 and in front of the user's nose and mouth is generousand the fabric drapes into waterfall folds such that the body of thefabric in the lower portion 10B flows and is loose fitting about thenostrils and mouth area. It will be appreciated; the act of breathingmay cause the fabric to move towards the user on inhalation and awayfrom the user on exhalation. However, the configuration of theface-gaiter 10 is such that inhalation and exhalation will have littleor no effect on the position of the fabric relative to the user's facebecause the looseness of fabric and the volume created below thenostrils and in front of the user's mouth is such that air pressuredirectly in front of the mouth is reduced because air flow is encourageddownwards into the area between the user's neck and the fabric of theface-gaiter 10.

The volume between the user's neck and the fabric is where theface-gaiter 10 is loosest, as such air flow is decelerated as it passesover the folds of fabric into the larger volume. The illustratedconfiguration improves containment of air flow within the volume definedby the face-gaiter 10 and the user's face, neck and upper chest.

The illustrated face-gaiter 10 is configured to prevent the mask fabricbeing drawn against the user's mouth when inhaling hard, which couldrestrict air flow and be uncomfortable for the user.

The upper circumference 14 of the face-gaiter 10 is sized to ensure asecure and sealing fit of the upper circumference (top seal) 14 againstthe user's face in the region across the bridge of the nose (nasionbone), adjacent to the bridge of the nose and the cheek bone (zygomaticbone) area i.e. the area under the user's eyes.

The nose detail 12 creates stiffness in the appropriate area whilsthelping to keep the mask fabric off the face in the nostril and moutharea. It will be appreciated that the stiffness of the uppercircumference 14 can be further enhanced by inserting, a stiffermaterial inside the fold whilst creating the upper circumference 14.

The fit of the face-gaiter 10 and the filtration capacity of theface-gaiter 10 can be enhanced by the addition of a filter insert 80and/or a nose seal 60 (see FIGS. 2A, 2B and 2C).

The filter insert 80 is provided by a fleece-type fabric, which is addedto the upper portion 10A and is configured to extend across each side ofthe user's nose and to extend down in front of the mouth i.e. is locatedin front of the user's mouth. This arrangement increases the resistanceto air flow in front of the user's mouth where air flow is greatest. Theaddition of the filter 80 can also act to retain particles expelled fromthe user's mouth.

The addition of a shaped fabric piece, for example the filter insert 80increases resistance to air expelled from the user's mouth andsignificantly improves sealing between the face-gaiter 10 and the sidesof the user's nose. This improved seal reduces the amount of airentering the face-gaiter 10 directly i.e. not through the fabric of theface-gaiter 10 and thereby significantly increases the protectionoffered to the user.

In the illustrated example, the filter insert 80 i.e. a fabric piece isadded inside the face-gaiter 10 in the area in front of the user'smouth.

The filter insert 80 includes a pair of tabs 82 (see FIG. 2A), which arerolled into a deformable hollow tube 83 (see FIG. 2B) that can conformto the contours of the user's face and the sides of the user's nose whenthe force from the upper circumference presses on the hollow tubes 83.This arrangement creates an airtight seal i.e. no gaps in the areaformed between the side of the user's nose, cheeks and the uppercircumference 14 of the face-gaiter 10. The hollow tubes 83 can beparallel as illustrated or tapered e.g. the tube is widest next to theuser's nose.

In the illustrated example, the filter insert 80 also includes a V-shapecut out 86 that corresponds with the lower triangular portion of thekite-shaped nose-detail 12 and a bulbous lower portion 88, which, inuse, covers the area in front of the user's nose and the user's mouth.

FIGS. 3A and 3B illustrate the filter insert 80 stitched 90 to the upperportion 10A of the face-gaiter 10. FIG. 3B illustrates the filter insertwith a nose seal 60 (see FIG. 2C), which, is captured in the hollowtubes 83 created by rolling/folding the tabs 82.

When the filter insert 80 (see FIG. 3B) is secured to the upper portion10A of the face-gaiter 10 an upper edge 84 of the filter insert 80aligns with the upper edge/upper circumference 14 of the face-gaiter 10such that the nose seal 60 is positioned across and on each side of theuser's nose to ensure that a seal i.e. no gap is provided between theupper circumference 14 of the face-gaiter 10 and the user's face andnose i.e. the nose seal 60 fills the triangular voids created betweenthe upper circumference 14 of the face-gaiter 10, the side of the user'snose and the user's cheeks.

The stitching 90 can be simple i.e. around the perimeter of the filterinsert 80 to secure it simply to the upper portion 10A of theface-gaiter 10 or it can be decorative, as illustrated in FIG. 2B, FIGS.3A and 3B.

In the illustrated example, the filter insert 80 is made from afleece-type fabric e.g. polyester or other suitable synthetics, but itwill be appreciated the filter insert 80 could be made from otherfabrics or a soft foam.

In the illustrated example, the filter insert 80 creates the innersurface of the face-gaiter 10 because it is attached to the inside ofthe face-gaiter 10. However, it should be appreciated that the filterinsert 80 could be sandwiched between the two layers providing the upperportion 10A of the face-gaiter 10. A channel i.e. hollow tube could becreated on the inner face of the face-gaiter 10 to house the nose-seal60 such that sealing between the upper circumference of the face-gaiter10 and the user's face is optimised.

In another example (not illustrated) the filter insert could be mademuch larger and be utilised to keep the face-gaiter 10 off the user'sface when the user is lying down e.g. lying in bed. In such an example,the filter insert could be made from an open lattice frame of soft foam,which would allow the volume in front of the user's mouth to beincreased to further aid breathing i.e. the configuration of the filterinsert creates a tent-like structure over the user's mouth and nose toprevent the fabric in front of the user's mouth restricting the user'sbreathing.

The lattice construction could be pliable so that it is not damaged ifthe user where to turn over and press on it or could be ridged and hardso that it could support such force without collapsing.

A second example of a face-gaiter 100 incorporating the nose detail 12is illustrated in FIGS. 4A, 4B, 4C and 4D. The face-gaiter 100 includesa front filter 100A, a top seal 100B, a neck seal/skirt 100C and a rearportion 100D.

In the illustrated example (see FIG. 4D for clarity) the front filter100A is the entire front area of the face-gaiter 100 i.e. the frontfilter 100A is the portion/section of the face-gaiter 100 that coversthe user's nose, the user's mouth and drapes down over the user's neckand upper chest area. The front filter 100A extends from the uppercircumference 114 (including the top seal 100B and nose seal 160) to theneck seal 100C; the junction between the front filter 100A and the neckseal 100C is indicated by the thick line 119.

The top seal 100B, similar to the example illustrated in FIGS. 3A and 3Bincludes a nose seal 160 (shown dotted in FIG. 4C), which ensures a seali.e. no gaps between the upper circumference 114 of the face-gaiter 100and the user's nose and face i.e. the user's cheeks.

The neck seal 100C extends from the front filter 100A to a lower taperededge 123, 117 (bottom seal).

The circumferential extent of the front filter 100A coincides with thecircumferential extent of the rear portion 100D where the front filter100A and rear portion 100D create a complete tube, which forms the shapeof the face-gaiter 100.

In the illustrated example (see FIG. 4D), the front filter 100A includesan inner layer 120, a filter layer 120A and an outer layer 120B. Thedotted line 119 indicates the extent of the filter layer 120A and thetop of the neck seal 100C.

Source control i.e. the filtration capability of the face-gaiter 100 isenhanced/improved by the filter layer 120A extending over the entirefront section of the face-gaiter 100 and covering the user's nose, mouthand neck.

The front filter 100A extends from the upper circumference 114 and topseal 100B and drapes down over the user's mouth, neck and upper chestarea (see FIGS. 4A, 4B and 4C) i.e. the front filter 100A covers thearea/zone into which the user breathes directly. The area of the frontfilter 100A of the face-gaiter 100 is around six times greater than thatprovided by a traditional mask.

In the example illustrated, the front filter 100A is made up of at leastthree layers of fabric (see FIG. 4D). Each layer is configured toperform multiple functions and each layer itself may be constructed frommultiple layers of fabric. The optimum fabric construction of the frontfilter 100A is to provide adequate filtration with minimal resistance toairflow.

The inner layer 120 can be made from a hygroscopic fabric. A hygroscopicfabric aids filtration by having an affinity to the moisture in theparticles a user exhales. The inner layer 120 is therefore configured tocapture larger droplets and some aerosols and reduce the absorptiondemand on the filter layer, which is sandwiched between the inner layerand the outer layer.

The inner layer fabric 120 may also be configured to wick away moisture,such that the inner layer does not become saturated and feels dry whereit touches the skin. Nylon, in particular, tight knitted nylon is anexample of a fabric that attracts moisture but gives it up easily i.e.wicks moisture. Rayon, viscose and other cellulose based yarns are alsosuitable. These materials are generally better than cotton whichattracts water but does not readily give it up and generally better thanpolyester which wicks well but only has a low capacity to attractmoisture initially.

In the illustrated configuration i.e. the filter layer being sandwichedbetween the outer layer 1208 and the inner layer 120 a further purposeof the inner layer is to protect the filter layer 120A.

The filter layer 120A is designed to catch most of the aerosols below aspecified size e.g. 10 μm. Examples of effective materials for thefilter layer 120A are non-woven fabrics, fleece type knitted fabrics(fleece type knitted fabrics are very durable) or tight knitted fleecefabrics. These are examples of a fabric constructed from multipletangled fibres. Suitable materials (a non-exhaustive list) arepolyester, nylon or cellulose based yarns; fine gauge tight knittedwools; non-woven fabrics made of very fine yarns such as cellulose,split polyester, split nylon and melt blown polypropylene.

Fleece type knitted fabrics are made by knitting the fabric with longloops. The loops are then cut or combed (broken). The resulting singlefibres are firmly connected to a base fabric, but the single fibres areloose, such that they become tangled in a random way. The most effectivefleece fabric for the filter layer 120A is a fabric, which contains manyfibres and the resulting dense fabric shows no pin holes when back litwith a strong light. This type of fabric enhances filtration of smallaerosols below 3 um and may have a durable electrostatic charge that isnot discharged by washing or be capable of being given an electrostaticcharge after washing by, for example, tumble drying. This requires atleast two of the layers to be as far apart as possible on thetriboelectric series (wool, nylon and cotton being at the positive endand polypropylene and polyethylene being at the negative end).

The filter layer 120A can be made from one or more layers of fabric madefrom single, multiple or blended yarns, but regardless of the number oflayers the configuration of the filter layer is to optimise filtrationat the highest possible porosity. Therefore, it will be appreciated thatif the construction of layers reduces porosity of the filter (porositybeing the ability of a fluid to flow through the fabric) a multiplelayer filter will be counterproductive and will reduce the overallefficiency of the mask, unless the extremities of the face-gaiter 10 areefficiently sealed to the users face, head and body.

The filter layer 120A is sandwiched between the inner layer 120 andouter layer 120B. The inner and outer layers 120, 120B may be morerobust fabrics than the filter layer fabric 120A such that the filterlayer 120A is protected and the inner and outer layers 120, 1208increase protection of the user and persons proximate to the user.

In the illustrated example, the inner layer 120, the filter layer 120Aand the outer layer 120B are held together by stitching/seams. However,it will be appreciated that, bonding, welding or other mechanical meanscan be used to secure the filter layer 120A to the inner and/or outerlayers 120, 120B.

As described above the filter layer 120A is sandwiched between the innerand outer layers. Arranging the layers in this way, using dissimilarfabrics for each layer enhances the generation of a static charge; thestatic charge can significantly increase the filtration of smallaerosols.

The filter layer 120A and the fabrics it is constructed from must bedurable and be able to withstand multiple washes so that it can besterilised between uses and without losing filtration performance. Thefilter layer 120A needs to generate the lowest possible back pressure toreduce the risk of leakage and the volume of leakage if this does occur.

The exposed outer layer 120B i.e. the exterior surface of theface-gaiter 100 protects the filter layer 120A. The outer layer 120B isconfigured to be more porous than the filter layer 120A and the innerlayer 120 such that pathogens that are filtered by the face-gaiter 100,from the user's environment, are likely to pass through the outer layer1208 and be held on the outer surface of the filter layer 120A. It willbe appreciated, the outer layer 1208 acts as a barrier, which reducesthe risk of the user transferring the pathogen to their hands or othersurfaces when lifting, lowering or removing the face-gaiter 100.

The outer layer 1208, as noted above, defines the outer surface of theface-gaiter 100 i.e. the outer surface is the exterior surface that isvisible to other people in the user's environment. As such the outerlayer 120B can be patterned, printed or dyed to make it aestheticallypleasing, fashionable etc. The aesthetic appeal e.g. to accessorise orcoordinate with an outfit may encourage a user to wear the face-gaiter100 more often than they would wear/use a conventional surgical typemask.

The inner layer 120 and the outer layer 120B, each include an upperportion 130 and the lower portion 134. The lower portion 134 correspondswith the neck seal 100C.

Referring to FIGS. 4A, 4B and 4C, the fabric of the front filter 100A istight in the region of the top seal 100B and the body of the fabricdrapes loosely from the top seal 100B creating waterfall-type folds,which create space beneath the user's nose in front of the user's mouthand neck area. This space allows all exhaled discharge from the user'snostrils or mouth to spread out within the face-gaiter 100 and thereforereduces the air pressure required to drive/force any dischargedparticles to penetrate the fabric in front of the mouth. A reduction inair pressure, the configuration of the at least three-layer thickness ofthe front filter 100A and the draped/water fall portion of theface-gaiter 100 reduces the occurrence of penetration of any exhaledparticles through the fabric and keeps the majority of any exhaledparticles within the confines of the face-gaiter 100.

In the illustrated example, the nose-detail 12 is created by firstfolding the front filter 100A in half about the lengthwise centreline.An angled seamline is then stitched to form a stitched triangle, definedbetween the long edge and the upper circumference edge 114. The panel100A is then rearranged flat such that the stitched triangle is locatedtop, front and centre. The stitched triangular seam is pressed flatagainst the body of the fabric to create a kite-shaped nose detail 12.The kite-shape is stitched in place to define a localised stiffenedregion i.e. the nose detail 12.

In the illustrated example, the kite-shaped nose detail 12 is visible onthe exterior of the front panel/portion 100A of the face-gaiter 100. Theshape of the nose detail 12 is such that, in use, the upper and lowervertices 132, 134 and the vertical diagonal 136 rest upon and align withthe centreline of the user's nose (see FIG. 4C). It will be appreciatedthat the nose detail 12 facilitates proper alignment of the face-gaiter100 on the user's face.

The physical manufacture of the nose detail 12 reduces theperimeter/circumference of the upper circumference 114 of theface-gaiter 10 such that a secure/snug fit for the user is assured wherethe upper circumference 114 is in contact with the user's face and head.

The fabric extending down from the upper circumference 114 and the nosedetail 12 is loose such that the volume defined below the uppercircumference 114 and in front of the user's nose and mouth is generousand the fabric drapes into waterfall folds such that the construction ofthe front filter 100A and the neck seal 100C flows and is loose fittingabout the nostrils and mouth area. It will be appreciated; the act ofbreathing may cause the fabric to move towards the user on inhalationand away from the user on exhalation. However, the configuration of theface-gaiter 100 is such that inhalation and exhalation will have littleor no effect on the position of the fabric relative to the user's facebecause the looseness of fabric and the volume created below thenostrils and in front of the user's mouth is such that air pressuredirectly in front of the mouth is reduced because air flow is encourageddownwards into the area between the user's neck and the fabric of theface-gaiter 100.

The volume between the user's neck and the neck seal 100C is where theface-gaiter 100 is loosest, as such air flow is decelerated as it passesover the folds of fabric into the larger volume. The illustratedconfiguration improves containment of air flow within the volume definedby the face-gaiter 100 and the user's face, neck and upper chest.

The illustrated face-gaiter 100 is configured to prevent the mask fabricbeing drawn against the user's mouth when inhaling hard, which couldrestrict air flow and be uncomfortable for the user.

The upper circumference 114 of the face-gaiter 100 is sized to ensure asecure and sealing fit of the upper circumference 114 against the user'sface in the region across the bridge of the nose (nasion bone), adjacentto the bridge of the nose and the cheek bone (zygomatic bone) area i.e.the area under the user's eyes.

The nose detail 12 creates stiffness in the appropriate area whilsthelping to keep the mask fabric off the face in the nostril and moutharea.

The rear portion 100D, as the name suggests, is the portion of theface-gaiter 100 which, in use is at the back/rear of the user's headi.e. the rear portion 100D begins and ends at each side of the user'sface, approximately in line with the user's ears, where the face-gaiter100 fits closely/tightly to the user's skin.

The rear portion 100D is a pliable/deformable element of the face-gaiter100 such that the rear portion 100D facilitates fitting the face-gaiter100 by pulling it over the user's head with ease and also facilitateswhen, in use, the upper edge of the rear portion 100D applying a smallbut consistent tension around the upper circumference of the face-gaiter100, such that a top seal 1008 is maintained about the uppercircumference and the user's face even when the user rotates or nodshis/her head.

At least the upper edge of the rear portion 100D will stretch in theregion of 50% to allow the face-gaiter 100 to be fitted and to maintaina consistent top seal. The construction of the face-gaiter 100 is suchthat this stretch and recovery is durable over many washes.

The neck seal 100C of the face-gaiter 100 is loose fitting. Therefore,particles and aerosols of a certain size will flow around and within theconfines of the face-gaiter 100 and will only escape through any voidsi.e. the path of least resistance. As such the porosity of the rearportion 100D is configured to prevent air flow. The rear portion 100Dmay be configured to be impermeable/non-porous by fabric treatment, bybonding a non-porous layer, for example polyurethane to the back portionand/or by adding an impermeable layer, for example natural or syntheticrubber etc.

The use of dissimilar fabrics from the triboelectric series can allow astatic charge to be created e.g. nylon and polyester. This can becreated by additional tumble drying once moisture has been removed.Selecting fabrics that can sustain this static charge while being wornfor at least eight hours will maximise the benefit of the additionalfiltration provided. This could include the addition of polypropylene orpolyethylene meshes that provide no other filtration benefit.

Heating the filter fabric increases the percentage of water-basedaerosols that are filtered. Running low voltage heating wires throughthe fabric in the filter layer 120A can be used to generate this heat.These wires could be run off rechargeable batteries fitted to orremotely from the face-gaiter 100 or when suitable (for example whenworking at a desk or other fixed location) connected to a low voltagepower supply. This power supply could also then recharge the batteriesto cover periods of use away from the desk.

In each of the illustrated examples, sealing and maintaining a sealbetween the upper circumference of the face-gaiter 10, 100 and thecontours of the user's face and nose is important because any gaps/voidsbetween the user's face and the upper circumference define a flow pathfor air flow. For the most part a seal is formed naturally by the uppercircumference 14, 114 and the nose detail 12 as they fit across thebridge of the nose across and around the cheeks and around the back ofthe head. A section of material below the upper edge e.g. 25 mm is keptpliable and has enough give/stretch such that the section below theupper circumference follows and hugs the contours of the user's face andhead. However, it will be appreciated that tension in the fabric at eachside of the user's nose creates a triangular gap at each side of theuser's nose. As described above a nose seal e.g. FIGS. 2C and 3D canfill the gap to ensure the upper circumference is sealed against thecontours of the user's face, nose and head.

In one example (see FIG. 5 ) a nose seal 40 may be provided by twotriangular inserts 42, which are soft and made of deformable foam. Inthe illustrated example, the inserts 42 are wedge shaped, such that inuse they taper (widest part 42A) from the side of the nose to the face(narrowest part 42B) to enhance sealing of the upper edge 22 of theface-gaiter 10 against the user's nose and face. An insert 42 isinserted on each side of the nose detail 20 such that the uppercircumference of the face-gaiter 10, 100 creates a continuous sealagainst the user's face and head.

The foam inserts 42 may be covered with fabric e.g. a soft fabric, whichfacilitates securing the foam insert 42 and distributing pressure aboutthe nose area to ensure a comfortable fit and to preventsoreness/discomfort to the user.

Other examples of nose seals 50, 60 are illustrated in FIGS. 6A to 6Dand 7A to 7D. These nose seals 50, 60 are manufactured as a singlepiece, which is shaped to correspond with the profile of a user's nose.In one example, the nose seal 50, 60 may be made from closed cell foamso as to be impermeable to air. The nose seal 50, 60 may be manufacturedby injection moulding e.g. injection moulded foam.

In the illustrated examples, the nose seal 50, 60 includes tapered edges52, 62, a flat base 54, 64 and a profiled upper surface 56, 66, whichincludes a recessed section 58, 68 in the centre of the upper surface.The recessed section 58, 68 is where the nose seal 50, 60 receives thebridge of the nose (nasion bone) when the face-gaiter 10, 100 is worn.

The shape and material of the nose seal 50, 60 is such that it can berelatively easily inserted during manufacture of the face-gaiter 10, 100and that it deforms suitably to create a seal about the user's nosearea. The deformability of the seal material is such that theconfiguration of the nose seal 50, 60 is suitable for use by user's withvarying nose and cheek profiles.

For optimum comfort and to ensure an optimum seal, the nose seal 50, 60can be made to suit the nose profile of a specific user e.g. by scanningthe user's face and using additive manufacturing (rapid manufacturing)to make a single customised nose seal 50, of the type illustrated inFIG. 6A to 6D, but with a profiled upper surface that conforms to theshape of the user's nose to cheek area. The recessed section 58 isshaped such that the nose seal 50 rests on the bony upper part of thebridge of the nose such that air flow through the user's nasal passagesis not restricted.

The ability to filter aerosols down to at least 0.3 um with little or noleaks and the ability to be washable potentially hundreds of times makesthe face-gaiter 10, 100 a viable alternative to disposable occupationalmasks especially those aimed at protection from specific types of dustand airborne particles. The whole life costs of such face-gaiters 10,100 would be lower, they can be branded for promotion and recycled atend of life offering significant environmental benefits.

The face-gaiter 10, 100 may provide some relief to sufferers from pollenand other organic airborne particles. Wearing a face-gaiter 10, 100 willfilter many of these from the air, is likely to reduce the amount oftime the user breathes through his/her nose and will help to maintain ahumid environment that reduces irritation of the airways.

The highly breathable fabric and deformable nature of the constructionused in the face-gaiter 10, 100 means that it is possible for a user towear the face-gaiter 10, 100 whilst sleeping comfortable in theknowledge they can sleep in any position without the risk of reducedoxygen take up.

At low levels of respiration, such as resting or sleeping, the airtemperature within the mask remains close to the ambient air temperaturemaking it extremely comfortable to wear and the general impression isone of not wearing a mask at all. This also makes it suitable for apatient who is bed ridden or otherwise has limited mobility.

Air pressure can be further reduced by increasing the area of fabricfiltering the air and selecting a fabric with higher permeability. Thisshould be done while maintaining the required level of filtration(defined by the percentage containment achieved at a minimum particlesize). Containment performance should be measured for the mask and notjust for the fabric.

To reduce muffled sounds the face-gaiter 10, 100 may include a layer ofacoustically transparent non-breathable material close to the user'smouth.

To facilitate viewing facial expressions, for example to allow lipreading, the face-gaiter 10, 100 may include a clear panel in front ofthe user's mouth. Heating wires may be embedded in the panel to minimisefogging such that visibility of the user's mouth is not impaired.

It will be appreciated, the bottom seal/neck seal in each example iscreated by the natural weight and loose configuration of the fabric ofthe face-gaiter 10, 100. However, the neck seal 10B, 100C may be brokenif the positive pressure of the air inside the face-gaiter 10 is toohigh which could occur if the porosity of the front filter area i.e. theupper portion 10A or front filter 100A is too low. To ensure an adequatebottom seal/neck seal, the lower edges 23, 17; 123, 117 can be tuckedinside a user's neck line of a top/t-shirt or weights can be added tothe lower edges 23, 17; 123, 117 to ensure the lower edges are notdisturbed by movement of the user's head or by increased air flow/airpressure.

The neck seal may be enhanced by attaching a donut of fabric (notillustrated), for example non-porous fabric to the lower edge of themask and attaching a mechanism, similar to braces, to the donut to pullthe lower edge into contact with the shoulder, back and chest region.This will significantly increase the internal pressure required for thelower seal to fail and will also maintain the seal during activitiesthat involve the user bending at his/her waist.

When wearing a mask/face-gaiter 10, 100 for extended periods of time,the shape and configuration of the forward portion of the face-gaiter10, 100 improves user comfort compared with conventional masks becausethe effort required to breathe through the face-gaiter 10, 100 for anygiven material is reduced. The area/volume provided by the front portionof the face-gaiter 10, 100 effectively reduces the peak pressure on thefilter layer. This allows the filter layer 80, 120A to contain a greaterpercentage of the particles of any given size compared with conventionalmasks. Therefore, when comparing like for like filter fabrics in theface-gaiter 10, 100 and in use with a conventional mask it has beenfound that the filter material in face-gaiter 10, 100 performs betterthan the same filter material used in a conventional mask.

Stitching 90, as illustrated (see FIGS. 2B, 3A, 3B, 4A, 4B and 4C), maybe considered problematic because a needle penetrating each layer islikely to leave a hole through which aerosols may escape from behind theface-gaiter 10, 100. However, stitching is an effective way to securethe layers together and will not leave problematic holes if there issufficient tension in the thread such that the resultant clamping forceexerted by the thread as it passes through the layers is sufficientlyhigh to hold the layers tightly together without leaving a hole throughwhich aerosols might escape.

Whilst specific embodiments of the present invention have been describedabove, it will be appreciated that departures from the describedembodiments may still fall within the scope of the claims.

1. A face-gaiter mask comprising a tubular construction of fabric, whichis configured, in use, for an upper front centre of the tubularconstruction to rest on an upper part of the user's nose, and for thetubular construction to extend down and drape over the user's nose, theuser's mouth and the user's neck; wherein the face-gaiter mask comprisesa top seal, a front filter section, a rear section and a neck seal,wherein an enclosed space is created between the top sale and the neckseal, wherein, in use the front filter section is located to the frontof the user's face and is configured to cover at least the user'snostrils and the user's mouth; wherein the front filter section includesat least two fabric layers, wherein the at least two fabric layers areconfigured to provide a predetermined level of filtration and resistanceto airflow through the filter section; wherein the top seal comprises anose detail, wherein the nose detail extends from an upper edge of thefront filter section and extends at least partway into the front filtersection, wherein the nose detail defines a localised stiffener to anupper edge and upper circumference of an upper portion of theface-gaiter mask and facilitates correct alignment of the front filtersection of the upper portion in use, wherein, in use the nose detailrests upon and aligns with the user's nasal bone; wherein the neck sealis provided by a lower edge of a lower portion of draping fabric, whichextends from the front filter section and in use drapes across theuser's neck area and wherein the neck seal is created about the user'sshoulder and upper chest area wherein the space defined within the lowerportion allows all exhaled discharge from the user's nostrils or mouthto spread out within the space, thereby reducing air pressure requiredto drive/force any discharged particles to penetrate the fabric in frontof the mouth.
 2. The face-gaiter mask as claimed in claim 1, wherein thenose-detail is a kite shaped detail, which is created in the frontfilter section, wherein the nose-detail reduces the upper circumferenceof the face-gaiter mask and extends down from the upper edge of thefilter section, wherein upper and lower vertices and vertical diagonalof the kite-shaped detail are configured, such that in use they alignwith the user's nasal bone.
 3. A face-gaiter mask as claimed in claim 1,wherein the nose-detail is a visible feature on the exterior of theface-gaiter mask; or wherein the nose detail is concealed from exteriorview, but is visible from the interior of the face gaiter mask. 4.(canceled)
 5. A face-gaiter mask as claimed in claim 1, wherein the topseal further comprises a nose seal proximate the upper edge of thefilter section, wherein the nose seal is arranged, in use, to create aseal between the upper edge of the front filter section, across theuser's nose and alongside the user's nose; optionally wherein the noseseal comprises one or more deformable members, which is/are attachedproximate to an upper edge of the front filter section substantiallysymmetrically relative to the nose-detail.
 6. (canceled)
 7. Aface-gaiter mask as claimed in claim 5, wherein the nose seal includestwo wedged inserts, where one insert is attached to each side of thenose-detail- or wherein the nose seal comprises a single contouredinsert, wherein the contour of the insert is configured to correspondsubstantially with contours of a user's nose and cheek area, or whereinthe nose seal is customized to the user's profile using additivemanufacturing (rapid manufacturing), such that the contoured insertconforms to the shape of the user's nose to cheek area.
 8. (canceled) 9.(canceled)
 10. A face-gaiter mask as claimed in claim 7, wherein thenose seal comprises a single contoured insert, a contour of the noseseal configured to correspond substantially with contours of a user'snose and cheek area, wherein the contoured nose seal includes a recessedsection and two convex sections, wherein the nose seal is configuredsuch that the recessed section rests on the bridge of the user's noseand the two convex sections bridge a gap between the upper edge of theface-gaiter mask and the user's nose and cheek area.
 11. A face-gaitermask as claimed in claim 5, wherein the nose seal is manufactured fromdeformable foam.
 12. A face-gaiter mask as claimed in claim 1, whereinthe filter section includes an additional filter layer, wherein thefilter layer occupies at least an upper portion of the filter section.13. A face-gaiter mask as claimed in claim 12, wherein the filter layeris attached to an inner layer of the at least two layers; or wherein thefilter layer is sandwiched between two of the at least two layers. 14.(canceled)
 15. A face-gaiter mask as claimed in claim 5, wherein thefilter section includes an additional filter layer, the filter layeroccupying at least an upper portion of the filter section, wherein thefilter layer includes a bulbous body and two upper pockets, wherein thepockets are configured to retain the nose seal relative to thenose-detail.
 16. A face-gaiter mask as claimed in claim 12, wherein thefilter layer extends substantially the full width and length of thefilter section of the face-gaiter.
 17. A face-gaiter mask as claimed inclaim 12, wherein the filter layer is made from one or more layers offabric, wherein the fabric comprises multiple or blended yarns.
 18. Aface-gaiter mask as claimed in claim 12, wherein the filter layer isconfigured to catch aerosols smaller than 10 μm; optionally wherein thefilter layer is configured to catch aerosols smaller than 3 μm 19.(canceled)
 20. A face-gaiter mask as claimed in claim 12, wherein thefilter layer is made from non-woven fabrics, fleece type knitted fabricsor tight knitted fleece fabrics; optionally wherein the filter layer ismade from polyester, nylon or cellulose based yarns; fine gauge tightknitted wools; or non-woven fabrics made of very fine yarns such ascellulose, split polyester, split nylon and melt blown polypropylene.21. (canceled)
 22. A face-gaiter mask as claimed in claim 1, wherein theat least two layers are made integrally of the same fabric, wherein thelayers are created by folding a sheet of fabric.
 23. A face-gaiter maskas claimed in claim 12 wherein each layer of the least two layers ismade of different materials.
 24. A face-gaiter mask as claimed in claim1, wherein the filter section of the face-gaiter mask includes an innerlayer, an outer layer and a filter layer sandwiched between the innerlayer and the outer layer, optionally wherein the inner layer is madefrom hygroscopic fabric.
 25. (canceled)
 26. A face-gaiter mask asclaimed in claim 24, wherein the outer layer is operable to protect thefilter layer; optionally wherein the outer layer is more porous than thefilter layer such that any pathogen from the environment that isfiltered by the face gaiter mask is likely to pass through outer layerand be held on the outer surface of the filter layer, and furtheroptionally wherein the outer layer is made of a warp knit polyester. 27.(canceled)
 28. (canceled)
 29. A face-gaiter mask as claimed in claim 1,wherein the rear portion is joined along edges of the front filtersection to form the tubular construction; optionally wherein the rearportion is made of a flexible and pliable material, which ensures theface gaiter mask can be pulled over a user's head.
 30. (canceled)
 31. Aface-gaiter mask as claimed in claim 29, wherein the rear portionincludes a resilient rear upper edge, which ensures the rear upper edgeof the rear portion fits snuggly against the user's head when theface-gaiter mask is worn.
 32. A face-gaiter mask as claimed in claim 31,wherein the upper edge includes an elasticated section, wherein a lengthof elastic is secured to the upper edge such that, in use, the upperedge of the rear portion fits snuggly against the user's head;optionally wherein at least the upper edge of the rear portion isconfigured to stretch by at least 50%.
 33. (canceled)
 34. A face-gaitermask as claimed in claim 1, wherein the rear portion is made of alayered construction; optionally wherein the layered constructionincludes at least two flexible/pliable materials.
 35. (canceled)
 36. Aface-gaiter mask as claimed in claim 34, wherein the layeredconstruction includes at least two flexible/pliable materials, at leastone of the flexible/pliable materials being non-porous.
 37. Aface-gaiter mask as claimed in claim 1, wherein the rear portion is madeof impermeable fabric; optionally wherein the rear portion includes alayer of polyurethane, natural rubber or synthetic rubber. 38.(canceled)
 39. A face-gaiter mask as claimed in claim 1, wherein theneck seal includes a tapered lower edge, wherein, in use, the lower edgerests against the user's upper torso or clothing such that a seal iscreated.